How to Show Up as an Ally for the Myriad of Marginalized LGBTQIA+ Intersections
Dear nonprofits & professionals,
Queer For Hire continuously refers to the LGBTQIA+ community as a “community of communities” – it’s not even entirely accurate to simply call “it” a community (singular) because of the myriad of intersections and identities that are the makeup across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. Lightheartedly, no one is safe from the reaches of LGBTQIA+ influence; we have and will always exist in all fabrics of life. We are a part of history, a part of culture, a part of science, a part of religion, a part of life.
And so, if you are just beginning your LGBTQIA+ cultural competency journey, or you are well in the throws of it, the concept of a “community of communities” with unending intersections and layers can be incomprehensible.
I had an extremely lovely and thorough conversation about how anyone can show up as an ally for the myriad of marginalized LGBTQIA+ intersections with Mid-West Mogul of nonprofit management & fundraising, and Queer Black Queen, Daa’iyah Rahman (she/her).
The LGBTQIA+ community is a community of communities – we hold intersections with people of color, people with disabilities, people of all income levels, backgrounds, ethnicities, upbringings, and on and on. How would you suggest to allies how they can navigate the nuances of LGBTQIA+ intersections and show up as the best ally that they can be?
To navigate the nuances of LGBTQIA+ intersections and show up as effective allies, it's essential to embrace intersectionality and crucial to honor the layers of their identities. We have to understand that LGBTQIA+ folks aren’t just defined by their sexual orientation or gender identity—there’s so much more to their experience. Intersectionality means recognizing that these identities intersect with race, culture, class, and other factors, shaping their world in ways that are both unique and deeply personal. Here are key ways I believe allies can support:
Educate Yourself: Learn about the different challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals at various intersections, such as queer people of color or disabled LGBTQIA+ individuals. This helps avoid one-size-fits-all approaches.
Listen and Amplify: Center the voices of those most impacted. Listening deeply and amplifying diverse experiences ensures that marginalized perspectives within the LGBTQIA+ community are not overshadowed.
Challenge Bias: Actively confront racism, ableism, classism, and other forms of oppression in LGBTQIA+ spaces and beyond. Recognize that allyship includes addressing all systems of discrimination.
Support Policies: Advocate for policies that promote equity across all intersections, such as inclusive healthcare, housing, and anti-discrimination laws.
Be Consistent: Show up not just during Pride or crises but year-round, in both private conversations and public advocacy.
By approaching allyship with humility, ongoing learning, and intentional action, allies can foster a more inclusive and affirming world for everyone in the LGBTQIA+ community.
What are the stigmas that connect the LGBTQIA+ – and all of its intersections – together? Are there stigmas that we all face? And how can allies do better to support us?
One stigma uniting the LGBTQIA+ community and its intersections is the idea that our identities are invalid or "unnatural." This leads to societal rejection, harmful stereotypes, and exclusionary systems. Another shared stigma is the belief that our fight for rights threatens societal norms, disproportionately harming those at multiple intersections, like queer people of color or disabled LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Allies can help dismantle these stigmas by challenging stereotypes, advocating for equity, and amplifying diverse LGBTQIA+ voices. Giving us access! Educating themselves on intersectionality and creating affirming spaces are key steps to fostering a culture where all LGBTQIA+ people are valued and free to thrive.
The LGBTQIA+ community is preparing for a very challenging 2025, given the recent U.S. election results. What can you say about the LGBTQIA+ community’s experience with voting? What can allies do on a ground level to support our community in the next election?
The LGBTQIA+ community has long been aware of the critical role voting plays in safeguarding our rights. Historically, our community has mobilized to push for progress, but voter suppression, discriminatory policies, and underrepresentation remain persistent challenges. For 2025, it’s more important than ever for the LGBTQIA+ community to stay engaged, informed, and organized to counter regressive legislation and candidates.
Allies can support on a ground level by actively advocating for inclusive policies and working to remove barriers to voting. This includes volunteering for voter registration drives, helping individuals in marginalized communities navigate the voting process, and educating themselves on local and national candidates’ stances on LGBTQIA+ issues.
Additionally, allies should amplify LGBTQIA+ voices, hold leaders accountable, and commit to sustained action—not just during election cycles. By fostering inclusive spaces, challenging harmful rhetoric, and ensuring LGBTQIA+ people feel safe to vote and participate in democracy, allies play a vital role in protecting the progress made and paving the way for a more equitable future. The fight isn’t going to be easy but it’s important to keep going to ensure a safe world for us all.
When we look at marginalized communities, we see this sort of trickle down effect. Women’s rights. The rights of people of color. LGBTQIA+ rights. How do the fights for these rights interconnect? And how can allies approach allyship in a way that alleviates restrictions from the LGBTQIA+ community?
The fights for marginalized communities are deeply interconnected because they all challenge systemic oppression rooted in inequality and discrimination. Women’s rights, the rights of people of color, and LGBTQIA+ rights often overlap in the lived experiences of individuals who exist at these intersections. These struggles highlight the need for an approach to justice that is inclusive and acknowledges how issues like racism, sexism, and homophobia are intertwined.
Allies can approach allyship by first recognizing this interconnectedness and committing to intersectional advocacy. This means showing up for all marginalized groups, educating themselves on the systemic barriers these communities face, and listening to their needs. Allies should amplify voices within the LGBTQIA+ community, especially those most impacted by compounded marginalization, like queer people of color and transgender individuals.
On a practical level, allies can challenge discriminatory laws, support inclusive policies, and foster safe, affirming environments in their communities. They must also take proactive steps to address voter suppression and other systemic barriers that disproportionately impact LGBTQIA+ people, ensuring their voices are heard and represented. True allyship is about consistent, informed action that uplifts and alleviates restrictions for all marginalized communities. Speaking up and out when you see injustice.
As a Queer Black woman, how do you navigate your identity in a way that allows you to show up as an advocate for yourself and your communities?
As a Queer Black woman, I navigate my identity by prioritizing authenticity in all that I do. Whether through the projects I take on, the spaces I inhabit, or the art and initiatives I create, I ensure that my work reflects who I am and what I stand for. This authenticity acts as both a grounding force and a form of advocacy—allowing me to honor my truth while inspiring others to do the same.
Showing up for myself means embracing my full identity without compromise. I celebrate my individuality and the intersectionality of being both Black and Queer, understanding that these facets are sources of strength and resilience. For my community, I lead by example, embodying the values of inclusivity, equity, and empowerment. I aim to create spaces where people feel seen and valued, fostering environments where we can thrive collectively.
Sincerely,
Queers
About the Author, Daa’iyah Rahman (she/her)
Daa’iyah Rahman (she/her) is a dedicated professional with a diverse background in youth advocacy, education, and community development. She received recognition as part of 2024 Crain’s Business Cleveland 40 Under 40 for her work in the community. Daa’iyah joined Open Doors Academy in November 2020 as a Program Coordinator and quickly rose to the role of Family Advocate for the Cleveland Metropolitan School District. Currently, she serves on the advancement team as Engagement Manager.
Daa’iyah attended Howard University and began her professional career on Capitol Hill, where she worked with Congressman Juan Vargas on education and foreign affairs issues. Her passion for youth and education led her to become a Tru2U mentor at Wade Park School and Beta Chapter President of Nu Rho Sigma Fine Arts Fraternity Incorporated.
In addition to her professional and volunteer work, Daa’iyah is an active member of the Blakk Jakk Dance Company and a devoted family member. She enjoys traveling, exploring new cuisines, and spending quality time with loved ones.
Her favorite quote is:
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou
Queer For Hire
Queer For Hire provides fundraising support and LGBTQIA+ diversity training for nonprofits, professionals, and corporations
Learn about our Fundraising Services <here> – we’ll lead or support your fundraising efforts, whether you need general support or want to focus on raising money from and for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Learn about our Fundraising Trainings <here> – we can coach your board, staff, and fundraising team on how to fundraise and how to engage LGBTQIA+ donors.
Learn about our other services <here> or our resources <here>.
